Chicken Birria Tacos

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken Birria Tacos are a flavorful twist on the traditional beef birria, offering a lighter yet equally rich alternative. Simmered in a savory, spiced broth with dried chiles, tomatoes, and warm spices, the shredded chicken is stuffed into crispy, cheese-lined tortillas and dipped in the delicious consommé. Perfect for taco nights or special gatherings, these tacos bring bold Mexican flavors and comforting textures to your table.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

boneless chicken thighs or breastsdried guajillo chilesdried ancho chilestomatoeswhite oniongarlic clovesbay leavescinnamon stickwhole clovesblack peppercornsoregano (Mexican preferred)thymecuminvinegar (white or apple cider)chickentomatillo or tomato bouillon (optional)corn tortillasshredded mozzarella or Oaxaca cheesefresh cilantro and chopped onions (for garnish)lime wedges

directions

Remove stems and seeds from the dried chiles. Toast them lightly on a skillet until fragrant.

Boil the toasted chiles, tomatoes, garlic, onion, and spices (bay leaves, cloves, cinnamon, peppercorns) for about 10 minutes.

Blend the softened mixture with oregano, thyme, cumin, vinegar, and a bit of the cooking liquid to create the birria sauce.

Pour the sauce over the chicken in a large pot or Dutch oven. Add chicken broth to cover and simmer until the chicken is tender (about 30-40 minutes).

Shred the cooked chicken and return it to the broth to keep it moist.

Heat a skillet or griddle. Dip a tortilla into the birria consommé, then place it on the hot surface.

Sprinkle cheese over half the tortilla, add shredded chicken, then fold and cook until crispy and golden.

Repeat for remaining tacos.

Serve hot with chopped onions, cilantro, lime wedges, and a side of consommé for dipping.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 12 tacos.Preparation time: 20 minutesCooking time: 40 minutesAssembly and frying time: 20 minutesTotal time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Variations

Use beef or lamb instead of chicken for a richer version.

Add chipotle peppers in adobo to the sauce for smokiness.

Try flour tortillas for a softer bite.

Top with pickled red onions or queso fresco for extra flavor.

Add avocado slices or crema before serving for creaminess.

storage/reheating

Store leftover chicken birria and consommé separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.To reheat, warm the chicken and consommé on the stove or in the microwave.Reheat assembled tacos in a skillet to maintain crispiness or in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.Freezing is possible for the meat and sauce, but assemble tacos fresh for best texture.

FAQs

What are Birria Tacos?

Birria Tacos are tortillas filled with slow-cooked meat (traditionally goat or beef), dipped in the cooking broth (consommé), and pan-fried until crispy.

Can I make these less spicy?

Yes, reduce the number of chiles or remove the seeds for a milder version.

Can I cook the chicken in an Instant Pot?

Yes, cook on high pressure for 12 minutes with a natural release for tender results.

Is it okay to skip the cheese?

Yes, but the cheese helps bind the taco and adds delicious texture.

What’s the best tortilla to use?

Corn tortillas are traditional, but flour tortillas work for a softer texture.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes, prepare the filling and sauce ahead, then assemble and cook the tacos just before serving.

Do I need to strain the sauce?

Straining the blended sauce creates a smoother texture but is optional.

Can I grill the tacos instead of pan-frying?

Yes, grilling works well but may not crisp the tortillas as much as pan-frying.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, mix it with the birria sauce and simmer briefly to absorb the flavors.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes, ensure your tortillas and bouillon (if used) are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

Chicken Birria Tacos are a mouthwatering fusion of tradition and creativity. The bold, spiced consommé and juicy chicken filling wrapped in crispy, cheesy tortillas make for a deeply satisfying dish. Whether you’re serving them for a weeknight meal or a festive occasion, these tacos are sure to impress and delight everyone at the table.

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